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Bowl of savory rice dish with vegetables and a light sprinkle of chopped cilantro

Mexican Rice Recipe

This Mexican Rice Recipe transforms white rice into a flavorful side dish with onion, garlic, bell pepper, jalapeno, tomato sauce, broth, and cumin. It is simple to prepare and pairs well with many main dishes.
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Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Keyword: Mexican Rice Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 1/2 red bell pepper diced
  • 1 small jalapeno seeded and finely diced
  • 1 c long grain white rice
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • Kosher salt to taste
  • 8 oz tomato sauce
  • 1 c vegetable or chicken broth
  • Finely chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  • Thoroughly rinse the rice under cold water using a fine mesh sieve, then drain well.
  • In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
  • Add the diced onion, minced garlic, red bell pepper, and jalapeno. Saute for 1 to 2 minutes, or until the onion begins to soften and turn translucent.
  • Add the drained rice to the saucepan. Continue cooking for approximately 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the rice is lightly toasted and golden.
  • Stir in the cumin, kosher salt, tomato sauce, and broth until the ingredients are evenly combined.
  • Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, cover the saucepan with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.
  • Remove the saucepan from the heat. Fluff the rice gently with a fork.
  • Garnish with finely chopped cilantro, if desired, and serve immediately.

Notes

To make this recipe gluten free, ensure that the tomato sauce, broth, and any packaged spices used are certified gluten free, as some brands may contain additives or cross-contamination risks. The rice, vegetables, and olive oil are naturally gluten free. Always check labels carefully if preparing this dish for someone with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.